Amanda Bertrand
Ridgely,MD
Summary
Resourceful Staffing Manager specializing in technical recruiting for defense contractors, with proven success in sourcing and hiring government-cleared talent. Skilled in full-cycle recruitment, workforce planning, and employee relations, with a strong ability to align staffing strategies to mission-critical organizational needs. Brings a strong foundation in procurement, negotiation, and data accuracy, paired with exceptional communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, to drive efficient, high-quality hiring operations while ensuring positive team dynamics.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Staffing Manager
Ascendant Innovations Corp
Hanover, MD
11.2024 - Current
- Led full-cycle recruitment for cleared and technical personnel, from sourcing and assessment, through offer negotiation, and onboarding.
- Developed and executed recruitment strategies, leveraging job boards, networking events, professional associations, and passive-talent outreach.
- Partnered with executives and hiring managers to define staffing needs, workforce plans, and organizational design adjustments.
- Analyzed labor market trends and recruiting metrics to optimize sourcing channels, and improve hiring outcomes.
- Reviewed and evaluated candidate pipelines using ATS data, external resume sources, and structured interview processes.
- Drafted offer letters and negotiated compensation packages to secure top talent.
- Created job descriptions and recruitment marketing materials to attract high-quality candidates.
- Conducted behavioral and technical interviews to evaluate qualifications, cultural alignment, and long-term potential.
- Provided timely candidate feedback to maintain a transparent and positive hiring experience.
- Represented the organization at conferences, workshops, and career fairs to strengthen employer visibility.
- Implemented employee engagement initiatives to strengthen retention, morale, and organizational culture.
- Counseled employees on career development pathways, and facilitated internal mobility, transfers, and referrals.
- Oversaw wellness and recognition programs, including tracking kudos, birthdays, and work anniversaries, to reinforce a culture of appreciation.
- Scheduled and facilitated employee meetings to address concerns, grievances, and development needs.
- Utilized applicant tracking systems to manage candidate pipelines, maintain accurate records, and improve operational efficiency.
- Managed a small team of interns in building an in-house ATS to streamline recruiting workflows.
- Organized and maintained employee directories and contact information to support organizational readiness.
- Prepared executive-level presentations outlining staffing plans, hiring progress, and workforce challenges.
Purchasing Agent and Office Manager
Tanglewood Conservatories
Denton, MD
01.2024 - 07.2024
- Investigated supplier-shipped, damaged, or defective items to protect company resources and ensure payment accuracy.
- Monitored inventory levels of critical materials to prevent stockouts and support uninterrupted operations.
- Ensured that proper and adequate materials were purchased to support the successful completion of million-dollar projects.
- Researched and evaluated suppliers using criteria such as pricing, quality, reliability, and service performance.
- Assisted in resolving invoice and delivery discrepancies to maintain strong vendor relationships, and accurate financial alignment.
- Prepared timely payments for vendor invoices to uphold positive supplier partnerships, and maintain credit standing.
- Entered financial data into accounting systems to maintain precise and audit-ready records.
- Processed invoices and payments in alignment with corporate policies and internal controls.
- Maintained organized accounts payable files and documentation to support efficient audits and reporting.
- Managed front desk operations by welcoming visitors, addressing inquiries, and directing individuals to appropriate personnel.
- Responded to customer inquiries via phone and email with professionalism and service-oriented communication.
- Ordered supplies and equipment to sustain operational readiness and workplace efficiency.
Buyer and PCard Manager
KeyW Corporation
Hanover, MD
11.2016 - 09.2019
- Prepared purchase orders and sent to distributors and suppliers.
- Contacted vendors to determine order status and communicate discrepancies with shipments.
- Researched potential products, vendors and services to compare price and quality.
- Examined materials offerings from new suppliers to obtain most competitive pricing.
- Sourced new vendors for purchasing needs.
- Prepared, coordinated and communicated price quotes, terms of sale, delivery dates and service obligations to customers and contractors.
- Provided monthly trainings for individuals needing access and instruction to purchasing cards for supply needs.
- Maintained continuous watch on security concerns, employee performance and customer service standards.
- Addressed patron complaints and promptly corrected errors and disputes.
Administrative Assistant
KeyW Corporation
Hanover, MD
11.2014 - 11.2016
- Answered phone calls and emails to provide information, resulting in effective business correspondence.
- Provided secretarial and office management support while building cooperative working relationships.
- Inventoried and ordered supplies for office.
- Scheduled appointments, meetings and events for management staff.
- Responded effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.
- Coordinated appointments, meetings and conferences.
- Maintained accurate department and customer records.
- Managed physical and digital files, monitored spreadsheets and updated reports to coordinate project materials.
- Developed administrative processes to achieve organizational objectives and improve office efficiency.
- Prepared and prioritized calendars and correspondence.
Education
Associate of Arts - Elementary Education
Chesapeake College
Wye Mills05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MDSkills
- Talent acquisition leadership
- Recruitment strategy & selection
- Sourcing & pipeline development
- Organizational alignment
- Human resources management
- Contract & pricing negotiation
- Employee relations & engagement
- Cost control & inventory oversight
- Vendor & procurement management
- Accounts payable & documentation accuracy
- Strategic marketing & communications
- Planning, organizing & data management
- Training, development & coaching
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Customer service & people skills
- Microsoft Office & computer proficiency
Accomplishments
- KeyW Employee Excellence Recipient
- Member of Phi Theta Kappa
- Member of Kappa Delta Pi
- Summa Cum Laude (both degrees)
Timeline
Staffing Manager
Ascendant Innovations Corp
11.2024 - Current
Purchasing Agent and Office Manager
Tanglewood Conservatories
01.2024 - 07.2024
Buyer and PCard Manager
KeyW Corporation
11.2016 - 09.2019
Administrative Assistant
KeyW Corporation
11.2014 - 11.2016
Associate of Arts - Elementary Education
Chesapeake College
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
University of Maryland Global Campus